(FENWICK TOWNSHIP, ON)- On November 22, 2023, shortly after 9:45 p.m., members from the Sault Ste Marie Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were conducting a Reducing Impaired Driving Everywhere (R.I.D.E.) check at the intersection of Highway 552 and Old Goulais Bay Road in Fenwick Township.
Shortly after 10:15 p.m., police observed a black vehicle approaching Highway 552 from Old Goulais Bay Road and stopped before entering the R.I.D.E. check program. Using hand signals and their flashlights, officers gestured the vehicle to come forward. The vehicle eventually approached the R.I.D.E. check area, and slowly drove past the officers, and continued through a stop sign.
A subsequent traffic stop was initiated on Highway 552 West and while speaking to the driver police determined alcohol had been consumed. The driver was transported to Sault Ste Marie detachment for further testing. The vehicle was towed and impounded for seven days.
As a result, Ever PEREZ, 43 years-of-age from Goulais River was charged with:
- Operation While Impaired-Blood Alcohol Concentration (80 plus)
- Fail to Have Insurance Card
- Possess More Than One Licence
- Disobey Stop Sign-Fail to Stop
The accused is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Sault Ste Marie on January 8, 2024.
The OPP’s annual Festive R.I.D.E campaign began on Thursday, November 16, 2023, and continues through to Monday, January 1, 2024. Expect to see officers out conducting R.I.D.E. checks in our communities and highways.
Have a plan before you go out to celebrate this holiday season and make the decision not to drive impaired. Arrange for a designated driver, call a taxi or stay overnight.
